Architect Nicoló Bini uses a technique similar to covering a balloon with papier-mâché to build his concrete <a href="http://www.binishells.com/" target="_blank">Binishell</a> <a href="http://inhabitat.com/magical-dome-house-in-remote-thailand-constructed-in-six-weeks-for-just-8000/thai-dome-home-by-steve-areen-18/" target="_blank">domed homes</a>. He starts with a two-dimensional shape on the ground, adds wooden form around an air bladder and reinforcing steel rebar, and then places a load of concrete that sets and slowly rises from the ground. Hit the jump to learn more about these unusual structures.

1

Binishells

This strange building technique combines an ancient building material with a modern-day aesthetic.

2

Binishells

It was pioneered by Nicoló’s father Dante, who built the first Binishell in 1964 (which is still standing today.)

3

Binishells

As the concrete sets around the form and structural support, an air pump is used to fill the bladder beneath.

4

Binishells

The concrete rises to reach its final shape, after which the bladder is deflated and removed for reuse.

5

Binishells

The tiny bubble-shaped structures are meant to be permanent homes and, according to Nicoló, have survived extreme conditions such as lava, ash and earthquakes on Mount Etna for 50 years.

6

Binishells

There are over 1,600 Binishells built across the globe, ranging from those 120 feet in diameter to tiny bungalows built in developing countries.

7

1/7

Binishell Dome Houses

Architect Nicoló Bini uses a technique similar to covering a balloon with papier-mâché to build his concrete Binishelldomed homes. He starts with a two-dimensional shape on the ground, adds wooden form around an air bladder and reinforcing steel rebar, and then places a load of concrete that sets and slowly rises from the ground. Hit the jump to learn more about these unusual structures.